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New Flight Battery Rules: What Travellers Need to Know

Check your battery's size and condition before flying. New rules mean lithium-ion batteries need special care.

There is a tent and there is a luggage bag kept inside the tent,there are some trees and a vehicle...
There is a tent and there is a luggage bag kept inside the tent,there are some trees and a vehicle kept outside the tent.

New Flight Battery Rules: What Travellers Need to Know

Travellers, take note of the latest guidelines for carrying batteries on flights. Rules vary based on battery type and size, with lithium-ion batteries attracting particular attention due to fire risks.

Firstly, always check your battery's watt-hour (Wh) rating. Those up to 100 Wh can be carried on, while those between 101-160 Wh need airline approval. Anything above 160 Wh must go as cargo. Always ensure your batteries are in good condition and fully powered off before flying.

Lithium batteries installed in devices like laptops or phones are allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage if fully powered off and protected from accidental activation. However, spare batteries, including power banks, must be carried in carry-on baggage and protected from short circuits. To find your battery's voltage and amperage, check your device or its charger, or look up the specifications online.

E-cigarettes and other inhalers with integrated batteries are permitted in carry-on baggage but not in checked baggage. Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and American Airlines restrict lithium-ion batteries due to fire risk, with specific restrictions varying by airline and battery type. Lufthansa and KLM, for instance, ban batteries over 160 Wh entirely and prohibit damaged or recalled units.

In summary, be aware of your battery's size and condition when flying. Always check airline-specific rules and ensure your batteries are safe and compliant. This will help ensure a smooth and safe journey for everyone.

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